Netflix Vs. the World

Earlier this year, Netflix sent an email to all of its members highlighting price increases which separated online streaming and DVD mailings into two separate plans. The separation seemed to make sense, particularly for those who never took advantage of both services. But it also seemed to punish those who did utilize both offerings, like myself.

At first, I was a bit annoyed. This new scheme surprised a lot of us Netflix members. With the new price plans, I saw my subscription go from $16.32 to $21.75—same service, no additions or anything, six dollar increase. Totally insane.

But after careful consideration, in spite of it all, I figured: twenty bucks for commercial-free unlimited streaming and two DVDs out at-a-time is actually still a total steal. That day, perusing the Netflix site, I thought about canceling my membership. However, I couldn't. I was still too in love with the service to think about ending my relationship with them. The day they announced the new prices, I considered terminating my membership for about five minutes. Then, I quickly came to my senses and understood: with all the films and TV shows available to me on Netflix, I am really saving on other costs.

Just think: if it weren't for Netflix, I would never get the chance to see the complete Ally McBeal series again unless I purchase the DVD set from Best Buy or somewhere on the Internet. The complete series costs about $100. For twenty bucks, I get to see every episode as many times as I want and if I want to rent it, I can and it'll be in my mailbox before the end of the week. It's that simple. Although the price hike feels utterly annoying and depressing, we still get our money's worth.

So, here I am. A real live and actually satisfied Netflix member. Although a lot can be done to improve its customer service (they clearly have no respect for its members and are currently paying for some shady business choices), Netflix is still an amazing service. It has reinvented the movie-rental industry and I am grateful for that.